Birth Defects

Disability/Illness Description:

Birth defects are defined as abnormalities of structure, function, or body metabolism that are present at birth. These abnormalities lead to mental or physical disabilities or are fatal. There are more than 4,000 different known birth defects, ranging from minor to serious, and although many can be treated or cured, they’re the leading cause of death in the first year of life.

According to the March of Dimes, about 150,000 babies are born with birth defects each year in the United States. The American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists (ACOG) says that 3 out of every 100 babies born in the United States have some kind of major birth defect.

Birth defects can be caused by genetic, environmental, or unknown factors.

March of Dimes Birth Defects Foundation – Through education and intervention, we help moms-to-be learn how to take care of themselves before, during and after their pregnancy.Massachusetts Chapter112 Turnpike Road, Suite 300
Westborough, MA 01581
Phone: 508-366-9066

Feingold Center at Children’s Hospital Boston – Waltham – Provides diagnosis and treatment of children born with birth defects, genetic diseases and intellectual disabilities. In 2011, the clinical care aspects of the Center was transferred to Children’s Hospital Boston in Waltham, where patients are now seen as part of the Division of Genetics at Children’s.
9 Hope Avenue
Waltham, MA
Phone: 781-216-2840
Fax: 781-216-2845